Automation Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Now Hiring:  Automation Specialist
Department: Production
Reports to: Head of Automation
Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt, Union
Hourly Rate : $29.85/hr.
Expected Dates: 9/15/2026
Location: Ashland, OR
This position is represented by IATSE Local 154.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

• Installs, maintains, repairs, and programs automated effects.
• Models and supports the mission and values of OSF by: a. Demonstrating inclusive behavior and creating an environment of belonging b. Maintaining a safe and anti-racist working environment c. Recognizing micro-aggressions and interrupting othering behaviors
• Executes research, development, and prototyping for theatrical automated effects.
• Fabricates, installs, and maintains electrical components such as cables, control boxes, limits, and other electromechanical hardware and devices.
• Programs and configures drives, controllers, and micro-controllers for stock and custom effects.
• Creates and integrates custom control circuits and fabricates electrical enclosures.
• Inspects, maintains, repairs, and adapts automation system infrastructure.
• Installs automated effects using advanced rigging and architectural anchoring methods.
• Provides Automation Department technical support during the technical rehearsal process.
• Collaborates with the creative team throughout the technical rehearsal process to design and program complex coordinated motion profiles.
• Supports maintaining a status of good standing with ANSI Entertainment Safety Standards within the Automation Department.
• Assists with the fabrication and installation of automated effects, including welding and metalwork.
• Transports or arranges for the transportation of automation components to and from the shop and the theaters
• Works with other production department staff, to plan and execute interdepartmental, show-related projects.
• Participates in the clean-up of workspaces at the end of the each day

Other Duties and Responsibilities:

• Attends company, department, shop meetings, and safety trainings as assigned.
• Engages with OSF patrons
• Support Marketing and Development efforts.
• Mentor colleagues as requested
• Acts as a scene shop carpenter and/or welder and fabricate scenery and/or props as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by scene shop management staff. 

Work Experience:

Three years of experience in the fabrication, installation, and maintenance of automated effects and two years prototyping electronics equipment.

Qualifications/Skills:

Knowledge of microprocessors, programming, AC/DC circuits and drives, PLC’s, motor control, and 3-phase/208V electrical power distribution; skill in reading electronic schematics and wiring diagrams; excellent verbal and written communication skills; proficiency in the use of hand and power tools for wiring and soldering automated systems; ability to troubleshoot low-voltage and high-voltage electrical systems; ability to read scaled construction or design drawings; ability to create CAD construction or design drawings in AutoCAD and SolidWorks; excellent PC computer skills; understanding of 3D printing technology; ability to take direction well and work without supervision; work quickly and safely in a fast-paced environment with a high level of cultural competency.

Physical Ability:

Ability to lift and move materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds; frequently climb and work from ladders and personnel lifts; regularly squat, crawl and kneel and maintain position while assembling automation; regularly reach above shoulders to assemble automation overhead; occasionally climb 24-foot vertical wall ladder to get to the catwalks above the stage; ability to stand and walk constantly for extended periods of time.

Other Skills, Knowledge, Ability:

Valid Oregon Driver’s License and a good driving record, ability to drive an 18’ box truck, ability to operate a forklift and personnel lifts (OSF provided Training), ability to pass and maintain a clear background check.

Special Hours Requirements:

Standard work week is Monday – Friday. Occasional night-time and weekend hours are required for load-ins, load-outs, technical rehearsal support, and technical show emergencies.

Preferred Qualifications:

Theatrical automation experience and metal fabrication. Proficiency in SolidWorks drafting